DEWALT DCKO86M1 Cordless Pole Saw and Hedge Trimmer Combo Kit review

Description

A Versatile Tool for Elevated Landscaping

The *DEWALT DCKO86M1 20V MAX Cordless Pole Saw and Pole Hedge Trimmer Combo Kit is a one-stop solution for tackling those hard-to-reach areas in your yard. I gave this combo kit a solid workout, and it’s clear that DEWALT designed this with convenience, power, and versatility in mind. Equipped with a 15-foot max reach pole saw and a 12-foot max reach hedge trimmer**, this kit makes trimming tall branches and overgrowth a breeze. But is it perfect? Let’s break it down.

Build Quality and Ergonomics

The first thing I noticed was the high-quality blend of materials. The yellow-and-black design screams DEWALT, and the alloy steel blade feels sturdy. The 8-inch bar-and-chain pole saw and 22-inch dual-action blade for the hedge trimmer are both laser-cut, which ensures precision. Holding the tool, I appreciated the lightweight design—it weighs just 5 pounds. However, when fully extended, it can feel a bit unwieldy, especially during prolonged use.

The grip and handle design are comfortable, but I wouldn’t say it’s perfect for every hand size. My cousin, who’s a bit shorter and has smaller hands, found the ergonomic handles slightly cumbersome. Still, for me, the tool struck a solid balance between weight and usability.

Performance and Cutting Power

This battery-powered combo kit delivers impressive results. The DCPS620 Pole Saw cut through limbs with ease, giving me 96 cuts per charge on average. That’s a lot of work for a single charge! The DCPH820 Hedge Trimmer Head, with its 7-position, 180-degree articulating head, allows for flexibility in trimming angles. I tested it on a row of overgrown hedges, and the 2800 spm cutting speed didn’t disappoint.

One standout feature is the laser-cut blades, which provide faster and cleaner cuts. It’s satisfying to see branches fall cleanly rather than splintering. That said, the hedge trimmer struggled a little with thicker branches; I had to go over some areas twice.

Key Benefits

• Exceptional reach of up to 15 feet for the pole saw and 12 feet for the hedge trimmer, making tall jobs manageable.
• Battery life that supports extended work sessions without stopping to recharge too frequently.
• Laser-cut, dual-action blades ensure precise and clean cuts.

Drawbacks

• The weight distribution when fully extended could be better, as it becomes harder to maneuver.
• Struggles slightly with thicker branches, which may require extra passes.
• The battery life indicator could be more prominent, making it easier to monitor during use.

Ease of Assembly and Storage

Assembling the tool is straightforward. I didn’t need to consult the manual much, which is always a plus. The snap-on attachments for switching between the pole saw and the hedge trimmer are intuitive, and I could do it quickly without fumbling. Storage, however, requires some planning. The poles are long, so unless you have a dedicated tool shed or garage, finding a spot for it might be a challenge.

Alternative Offerings

When comparing this combo kit to others, like the Greenworks 40V Cordless Pole Saw and Trimmer or the Ryobi ONE+ 18V Pole Saw and Hedge Trimmer, I noticed a few key differences. The DEWALT offers better battery life and cutting precision, largely due to the laser-cut blades. However, the Greenworks model feels lighter during extended use, and the Ryobi offers a slightly smaller cutting width, which might be preferable for tighter spaces.

Where the DEWALT shines is in its durability and professional-grade materials, but it does come at a slightly higher price point compared to these competitors. If you’re looking for a tool built to last, this one edges out the competition.

Price Performance

Considering the number of features packed into this tool, I’d say it offers great value for money. The battery efficiency, build quality, and cutting power justify the investment. While it might be pricier than some entry-level options, the performance and reliability make it a worthwhile purchase for anyone serious about yard maintenance.

In my experience, the DEWALT combo kit feels like a tool designed for semi-professional landscapers or serious DIYers. It’s not just another gadget to collect dust in the garage—it’s a workhorse that delivers consistent results. Overall, this tool fits the bill for tackling high-branch cutting and hedge trimming with ease, though it could benefit from a few tweaks in weight distribution and handling.

Additional information